About 60,000 runners will take to the streets of all five boroughs of New York City on Sunday for a marathon with millions of spectators expected and plans for additional New York City police officers along the way.
Police said there were no credible threats to this year’s marathon. The New York Police Department is deploying more officers, vehicles and thousands of roadblocks.
Main roads were closed starting overnight, including the upper levels of the Verrazano Bridge. Officials urge everyone to use public transportation and expect delays.
New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tish reminded viewers to remain vigilant.
“The police will be there to keep you safe, but we ask everyone to remain vigilant. If you see something, please speak up,” Tisch said.
Crews have been checking roads and sidewalks. Organizers are also making adjustments to the Bronx ballpark for the first time in 15 years to help reduce disruption to residents and businesses.
For runners from places like Arizona and Portugal, the race marks the culmination of months of training: a 26.2-mile journey through the five boroughs that ends in Central Park.
Madison Lieberman is preparing for her first marathon.
“This is my first marathon. I didn’t know what to expect, but I had a lot of feelings,” Liebman said.
For Kenya Flores, this race is about more than just crossing the finish line. It’s also about setting an example for her daughter, Isabel Flores.
“I think I’m very proud of her and I think if she believes in herself, she can achieve anything,” Isabelle said.
Marathon runner Bella Polisato said she appreciated the effort the runners put in to compete.
“It’s amazing to see all the effort that everyone puts in, whether it’s training or fundraising or both,” Polisato said.
This story was originally reported and broadcast by NBC New York. Artificial intelligence tools helped convert the story into a digital article, which NBC New York reporters edited for publication.